When Manuel Ugarte stepped onto the pitch at Old Trafford for the first time, he was met with a series of challenges. From narrowly avoiding being soaked by sprinklers to witnessing a 3-0 defeat against Liverpool, Ugarte’s debut was far from ideal. Manager Erik ten Hag made it clear that it will take time for Ugarte to adjust to his new role, emphasizing that he is not a magician who can instantly fix all the team’s problems.
The Weight of Expectations
Having been signed to address Manchester United’s long-standing issue of controlling games from midfield, Ugarte carries the weight of years of neglect in that area. The club has struggled to find a player capable of providing the defensive stability needed to dominate matches. The hope is that Ugarte will finally be the solution to this problem, despite the immense pressure placed on his shoulders.
A Historical Problem
The lack of a strong defensive midfielder at Manchester United is not a recent issue. Since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement in 2013, the club has failed to secure a player of the caliber needed to solidify the midfield. Past signings such as Bastian Schweinsteiger, Nemanja Matic, and Casemiro have fallen short of expectations, leaving a void that Ugarte is now expected to fill.
Manuel Ugarte brings a set of skills that are much-needed at Old Trafford. His youthful energy, athleticism, tenacity, and defensive awareness make him a promising addition to the team. The hope is that he will provide the defensive stability that has been lacking, allowing the team to control games from the midfield. With Ugarte alongside young talent like Kobbie Mainoo, there is optimism for a stronger defensive midfield axis.
Challenges Ahead
Despite Ugarte’s arrival, there are still obstacles to overcome. Lisandro Martínez’s defensive recklessness and Bruno Fernandes’ tendency to leave gaps in midfield pose additional challenges for Manchester United. While Ugarte’s presence is a step in the right direction, it will take a collective effort to address all the team’s weaknesses.
It is clear that Manchester United’s struggles go beyond the absence of a quality defensive midfielder. Tactical adjustments, defensive discipline, and a cohesive team effort are essential for success. While Ugarte’s signing has generated excitement, it will take more than one player to turn things around for the club.
The pressure is on Manuel Ugarte to deliver at Manchester United. His role as a defensive midfielder comes with high expectations and the need to address years of midfield deficiencies. While his arrival is a positive step, it will take a combination of individual talent and team effort to bring success to Old Trafford.